EPA and CDC Report
High Levels of Bacterial Contamination in New Orleans Floodwater
Samples
September 9, 2005
Floodwaters from multiple locations across the New Orleans
area were sampled by EPA and analyzed for chemicals and
bacteria. These initial results represent the beginning of
extensive sampling efforts and do not represent the condition of
all flood waters throughout the area.
Preliminary information indicates that bacteria counts for E.
coli in sampled areas greatly exceed EPA's recommended levels
for contact. At these levels, human contact with water should be
avoided.
Additional chemical sampling was performed for priority
pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), total metals,
pesticides, herbicides, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Results from these analyses were compared to various ATSDR and
EPA health levels. Lead concentrations in water exceeded
drinking water action levels. These levels are a concern if a
child ingests large amounts of flood water. For the additional
chemicals tested, we have yet to detect contaminant levels that
would pose human health risks. Due to the priority of the search
and rescue mission, EPA testing has focused on neighborhoods and
not in heavily industrialized areas.
Given these results, emergency response personnel and the
public should avoid direct contact with standing water when
possible. In the event contact occurs, EPA and CDC strongly
advise the use of soap and water to clean exposed areas if
available. Flood water should obviously not be swallowed and all
mouth contact should be avoided. People should immediately
report any symptoms to health professionals. The most likely
symptoms are stomach-ache, fever, vomiting and diarrhea.
Additional information regarding health and safety issues for
both the public and emergency responders can be found on the
Center for Disease Control (CDC) website (
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/index.asp ) and
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA)
website (
http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/hurricaneRecovery.html ).
Preliminary water testing data will be confirmed through
additional EPA testing and data analyses to ensure that all data
is of the highest quality. EPA is implementing a rigorous
scientific process to ensure that the flood waters of New
Orleans are thoroughly sampled for multiple types of key
contaminants as appropriate. EPA is actively coordinating all
sampling activities and data analyses with federal, state, and
local agencies.
For additional EPA information, go to:
http://www.epa.gov/katrina
.
Source: EPA September 9, 2005
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